Histological tissue specimen treatment

Abstract

A tissue processor for processing tissue samples for histological analysis. The processor comprises two retorts, wax baths, reagent containers, a pump and valve. The vale distributes the reagent from one container to either retort. Separate reagent lines connect the wax baths to the retorts. A method of infiltrating a sample containing a reagent such as a dehydrating reagent like an alcohol, where the infiltrating material is heated to a temperature at or above the boiling point of the reagent, to boil off the reagent when the tissue sample is contacted by the infiltrating material. The pressure in the retort may be reduced to lower the boiling point of the reagent.

1. A tissue processor having a retort with a first temperature sensor mounted to the body of the retort, and a second temperature sensor mounted to a heating device of the retort, wherein the tissue processor comprises a controller that executes a method of heating the retort to a desired temperature the method comprising:
 measuring the temperature of the retort utilizing said first temperature sensor; 
 heating the retort using said heating device in contact with the retort; 
 measuring the temperature of said heating device in contact with the retort utilizing said second temperature sensor; and 
 keeping the heating device at a temperature below its maximum operating temperature but above the desired retort temperature until the retort temperature reaches the desired temperature.